Whenever we are facing a difficult task or situation, we know we can always do it better if there is at least one other person who can be of support to us. We simply do not enjoy going it alone.

The First Reading for this Sunday (The Baptism of Our Lord) brings us the time when Israel would learn of their support from God during a critical time. It's a time of their exile ending in Babylon and embarking on their journey home. Here is part of the text:

"Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.When you pass through the waters, I will be with you,and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,and the flame shall not consume you." Isaiah 43:1-7

​God's people would know that they mattered to him. They were called by name. Absolutely nothing would undo this relationship!

Our baptism has brought us into an intimate relationship with God. Each of us is known by name. Yes, our name denotes our individuality, but also identify us as being known by God when our names were read at the time of being baptized.

It may be easy to get lost in the crowd and wonder if God still cares about me, yet we can always return to our baptism. I would invite you to reflect on these intimate words of God that we find here in Isaiah. You may want to read the full text, which is Isaiah 43:1-7. Blessings to you in your preparation for worship and your experience in worship this Sunday.